How To Stop Cats from Scratching Furniture & How To Fix

Cats naturally scratch for several reasons. It helps them mark their territory, stretch their muscles, and keep their claws healthy. However, when cats direct this behavior towards furniture, they can cause significant damage and frustration for their owners. Knowing why cats scratch and using good prevention methods can keep cat scratchers away and protect your furniture.

1. How to Prevent

Preventing your cat from scratching furniture involves understanding their natural behaviors and providing appropriate alternatives. Here are detailed strategies to protect your furniture:

1. Provide Appropriate Scratching Alternatives

Cat Scratching Posts and Large Cat Trees:

Cats have an innate need to scratch to mark territory, stretch muscles, and maintain claw health. Offer a variety of scratching posts and pads made from materials like sisal rope, corrugated cardboard, or carpet remnants.

Placement:

Position these pet friendly furniture near areas your cat frequently scratches or in high-traffic zones.

Stability:

Ensure the cat tree furniture are sturdy; a wobbly post may deter use.

Encouragement:

Entice your cat by rubbing catnip on the posts or using toys to draw attention to them.

2. Make Furniture Less Appealing

Protective Covers:

Use tightly tucked sheets, plastic covers, or aluminum foil to cover furniture temporarily. Cats often dislike these textures, which can deter scratching.

Double-Sided Tape:

Applying double-sided sticky tape to furniture can discourage scratching, as cats dislike the sticky sensation.

Scent Deterrents:

Spray cat-safe citrus scents or apple cider vinegar on furniture; many cats find these odors unpleasant.

3. Regular Nail Maintenance

Trimming:

Regularly trim your cat's nails to reduce damage from scratching. Use proper cat nail clippers and ensure you're familiar with the correct technique to avoid injury.

Nail Caps:

Consider using soft nail caps, like SoftPaws®, which are vinyl coverings glued over your cat's claws to prevent damage.

4. Behavioral Training

Positive Reinforcement:

Reward your cat with treats, praise, or playtime when they use appropriate scratching surfaces.

Redirection:

If you catch your cat scratching furniture, gently redirect them to the wood cat tree and reward them for using it.

5. Environmental Enrichment

Play and Exercise:

Engage your cat with regular play sessions to reduce stress and excess energy, which can lead to destructive scratching.

Safe Spaces:

Provide cat condos, cat tree houses, and interactive toys to keep your cat mentally stimulated and content.

6. Avoid Declawing

Health Implications:

Declawing is a major surgical procedure that can lead to chronic pain and behavioral issues. Veterinary professionals discourage it, and many regions consider it illegal.

Implementing these strategies can help protect your furniture while respecting your cat's natural behaviors. Patience and consistency are key; it may take time for your cat to adjust to new habits.

2. How to Fix?

Repairing cat scratches on furniture depends on the material—wood or leather. Here's how to address scratches on each:

Wooden Furniture:

Assess the Damage:

Determine the depth of the scratches to choose the appropriate repair method.

For Minor Scratches:

Walnut Method:

Rub a walnut kernel on the scratch a few times. Then, use your finger to warm the area. This helps the wood soak up the nut's natural oils.

Stain Markers:

Use wood stain markers or even brown and black Sharpies to fill in scratches, blending them with the surrounding wood.

For Deeper Scratches:

Wood Filler:

Apply a matching wood filler to the scratch, let it dry, and then sand it smooth. Finish by staining or painting to match the original color.

Pumice and Mineral Oil Paste:

Create a paste using mineral oil and pumice powder. Rub it into the scratch with a soft cloth, then wipe away any excess and buff the area.

Leather Furniture:

Assess the Damage:

Identify whether the scratches are surface-level or deeper cuts.

For Light Scratches:

Leather Re-Coloring Balm:

Apply a leather re-coloring balm to restore color to the scratched area.

Vaseline (Petroleum Jelly):

Apply a thick coating of Vaseline to the scratch, let it sit for 24 hours, then buff it off. This can help reduce the appearance of scratches.

For Deeper Scratches:

Super Glue and Sandpaper:

Apply a small amount of super glue to the scratch, let it dry, then gently sand it smooth. Finish by applying a matching leather dye to blend the repair.

Leather Repair Kit:

Use a leather repair kit that includes filler and colorants to restore the damaged area.

Preventive Measures:

Regular Maintenance:

Keep your furniture clean and conditioned to maintain its appearance and durability.

Protective Covers:

Use slipcovers or throws to protect furniture from future scratches.

Provide Alternatives:

Offer your cat designated tall cat tower​ or pads to deter them from using your furniture.

By using these preventive measures and repair solutions, you can keep your furniture looking nice. This also helps your cat's natural behaviors.

Patience and consistency are important. Your cat might need time to adjust to new habits. It may also take time for repairs to fully fix your furniture. Remember, understanding your cat's needs will help create a happy home for both you and your pet.